When “No” Is Not Enough: What Not to Do If You’re Sexually Harassed in Practice
It’s an unfortunate truth: sexual harassment remains far too common in the massage therapy profession. If it’s happened to you, please hear this first — it’s not your fault. You are not alone, and the way you feel is completely valid. Trauma, embarrassment, fear, anger, confusion — all are normal responses to a completely unacceptable situation.
What Is Sexual Harassment, Exactly?
Sexual harassment includes any unwanted comment, gesture, or action of a sexual nature that makes someone feel uncomfortable, ashamed, or unsafe. It’s not about the harasser’s “intent”; it’s about your experience. (In contrast, unwanted physical contact involving sexual body parts is considered sexual assault — a criminal offense.)
As per the Canada Labour Code, sexual harassment includes:
“Any conduct, comment, gesture, or contact of a sexual nature that is likely to cause offence or humiliation.” (Source: Government of Canada)
Still unsure what to do? We’ve got a blog for that too — Sexual Harassment: Steps to Take Before, and If Something Occurs. But today, let’s talk about the don’ts — the crucial things not to do if you ever find yourself in this unfortunate situation.
Don’t Keep Massaging.
We’ll say it clearly: Stop the treatment. Immediately.
Calmly inform the client that their behaviour is inappropriate and that the session is over. Then, leave the room. Yes, it might be nerve-wracking. Yes, it might be one of the bravest things you’ll ever do. But continuing the massage sends the wrong message — that the behaviour is tolerable. It is never acceptable. And the law agrees with you.
Don’t Stay Silent.
After the session, tell someone — your clinic owner, supervisor, or a trusted colleague. If you work solo, call a friend or family member and stay on the line until the client leaves.
Do not mention the client’s name unless you’re speaking to your employer — otherwise, you could open yourself to a defamation claim. And if your employer shrugs it off or minimizes what happened? Point them directly to the Labour Code guidelines. Education is free — and necessary.
Don’t Skip the Paperwork.
Document the incident in detail in your treatment notes — while it’s fresh. What was said, done, and how you responded. Your notes are your professional shield should anything arise later.
Don’t Post About It!
We know the instinct to warn others is strong. But naming the client on social media or even in casual conversation can land you in legal hot water — even if you’re just “venting.”
Instead, report the incident to police. Even if it doesn’t result in an immediate investigation, it adds to the record and could help establish patterns in future cases.
Don’t Rebook the Client.
Sexual harassment warrants a zero-tolerance policy. The client forfeits their right to treatment. If you choose to formally terminate the relationship, refer to our blog: When Can You Refuse Treatment?. And if you’re considering written communication, run it by a legal professional first — better safe than subpoenaed.
Final Thought
You became a massage therapist to help people feel better — not to navigate violations of personal safety. The responsibility to maintain professionalism doesn’t mean tolerating abuse. You’re allowed — encouraged, even — to protect yourself.
If you ever find yourself in this situation, don’t carry it alone. Support exists, and so do your rights.